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17th instant an unsuccessful attempt was made to bomb
the Military Governor, while a plot to burn the city was
also discovered. Up to date, however, the city remains
quiet and the Central Government which has already dès-
patched two separate emissaries to report in person on the
situation are not likely to be taken unawares.
The Government of Hongkong have voted a sum of
$50,000 for the relief of distress and have also handed over
the balance of last year's Relief Funds for the same purpose
and have assisted in the transport of food supplies to the
devastated districts.
The Chinese Government have expressed their thanks for
this generous assistance in the letter of which translation
is enclosed, and which I have also communicated to the
Governor of Hongkong.
In acknowledging the receipt of Mr. Kirke's report I
have taken the opportunity to express my appreciation of
the work done by himself and his staff in saving the Consular
archives under the difficult conditions created by this
!
sudden disaster.
I have, &c.,
!
(Signed)
J.N.Jordan.